How to get paid $50K to explore US national parks for 6 months
Dream job alert.
The beer brand Michelob is now accepting applications for the job of CEO — that’s “chief exploration officer.” The position is more of a sweepstakes award than actual long-term employment: Whomever is selected will be paid $50,000 to travel America for six months, documenting the country’s national parks as they drive.
“As Chief Exploration Officer, you’ll get an office with the best view, and get to travel for work … a lot,” reads the Pure Gold CEO candidacy explanation page. “You’ll be tasked with capturing content while touring the country, visiting national parks and repping Michelob ULTRA Pure Gold along the way.”
The “ideal candidate” will not only be a big-time nature lover but also will have photography and editing chops, possess social media knowhow, be 21 or older, respect the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s pandemic safety protocols and have a valid US driver’s license. A license and Class B RV experience are prerequisites, but having a vehicle is not: Michelob will provide the winner with a glamping-level camper van equipped with bathroom and shower.
In addition to the $50,000 salary, the beer company will also cover gas money, “plus expenses,” as the winner makes their way across the nation.
The current travel plans include stops at California’s Sequoia, Yosemite and Joshua Tree national parks, as well as Texas’ Big Bend National Park and Arizona’s Saguaro National Park — although the fine print states that “destinations are subject to change depending on . . . unforeseen factors.”
The CEO is also allowed to bring along a companion, be they friend, spouse, partner or a dog, the FAQ states.
The deadline to apply is Sept. 30. The application on Michelob’s website asks for basic identifying info and the applicant’s Instagram handle, with non-mandatory lines to add to their Twitter handle, YouTube channel and “portfolio,” as well.